Now that we've passed Round 2 deadlines, let's talk about whether or not to go for Round 3 or Round 4. Here's everything you need to know about Round 3 and Beyond!
The purpose and availability of Round 3 and Round 4
Round 3 and Round 4 serves 2 main purposes: to fill remaining class seats and provide flexibility for strong and unique applicants who faced previous limitations (Visa Considerations, Update on Waitlist Status from other schools, Employee sponsorship, etc.) to put together a well-rounded class. For this reason, not every program offers Round 3 and Round 4 with many M7 schools-like Harvard Business School and Wharton-declining to do so. Furthermore, depending on region and even program, Round 3 and Round 4 have a different weight; For USA programs, typically Round 3 accepts only a few students so admission chances are a lot lower and barred for international applicants due to tight visa turnaround. Thus they should only be used by those with a strong application. On the other hand, for European programs like INSEAD and HEC, all rounds are equally weighed to give strong candidates flexibility across the year and some programs may even have more rounds than four (HEC has a monthly deadline of five or more). So for those interested in applying for Round 3 and beyond, a European MBA program with more equally weighted rounds might be better in this case; or do your research to see if the program you're interested in has Rolling Admissions or historically has been favorable with later rounds.
Round 3 and Round 4 Acceptance Rates: What You Need to Know
Overall, if applying to a typical MBA program in the USA, Round 1 and Round 2 have a significantly better chance. Fewer spots are typically available during later rounds and scholarship offers are dried up. It's estimated that acceptance rates drop by 30-50%. However, with that in mind, it's not completely hopeless; MBA programs usually still reserve a few spots for top performers and so there's a chance, even if it's extra competitive. Some data does exist on acceptance rates for Round 3 and 4 so if interested in applying to these rounds and increasing your chances, check for programs that have a comparable acceptance rate across rounds and larger class sizes. For international applicants in particular, make sure to check if the program even accepts international students after Round 2!
Should you apply for Round 3 and Round 4?
MBA programs known that standout students apply during Round 1 or Round 2 and potentially high risk (waitlisted/rejected at other programs). So if applying for Round 3/4, one needs a good reason and be a particularly strong candidate. Be prepared to address this as you don't want to give the impression that the program you're applying for in R3/R4 are merely backups. For those interested in applying for Round 3 consider the following factors: GMAT/GRE score, intended industry, overall readiness, and legitimate personal reasons (visa constraints, family, work sponsorship, etc.). As you need to be particularly stand out for later rounds, having a higher GMAT/GRE score, well-polished essays, sufficient years of work experience, and an in-demand industry is going to be particularly important. Remember, some of these M7 programs are literally selecting just a handful for their later rounds. So if you're going for it, make sure your reasoning is sound! And if all else fails, a case can be made to still go for Round 3 because even if rejected, you can apply next year as a Re-applicant (not a bag thing overall). However, if doubtful, it's also ok and potentially more prudent to apply early for Round 1 for the next cycle.
Tips for a stand out Round 3/4 Application, let's go
If you've read the above and decided you still want to go for Round 3 and beyond, here are some key ways to navigate the application.
Combat how R3/R4 applicants are perceived: "high risk". One of your goals in your application (whether through the essays or interview), is to proactively provide context why you chose the timing of Round 3/4. Use the opportunity to frame it in a positive manner, indicating that you've taken time to think about the weight of your decision. Some good "Why Round 3/4?" reasons include: recent professional growth, improved test scores, and if conveyed properly, personal circumstances (relocation, family obligation, military service, etc.), The latter can often be explained further in the optional essay.
Keep in mind why Round 3 and Beyond exists. The later rounds exist to provide flexibility for strong and unique candidates and thus, as you work on the application, think about how you can highlight your unique and differentiated profile whether you're coming from an underrepresented industry or function, have exceptional career achievements, or can further the demographic/geographic diversity. The goal here is to clearly and persuasively convey your leadership potential and impact, demonstrating your readiness and fit for an MBA immediately.
Emphasize Your Fit. Keeping in mind that R3 and beyond is typically used to round out a solid diverse class, it's more important than ever to emphasize your fit and commitment with the program. Make sure to do your research on clubs and resources the program is offering, mention students, alumni, and faculty you've talked with and of course, how your concrete career goals align with the program
Although difficult, Round 3 and beyond are not impossible and I'd like to share how my international client was able to beat all odds and successfully get accepted into Round 4 WITH scholarship for the #24 MBA program in the USA: Georgetown McDonough
Success Story: Jay
Jay, one of my Taiwanese client's was determined to start an MBA in the USA in 2023 so that he could join his girlfriend in the States. After being rejected by Columbia, NYU Stern, Haas, UCLA Anderson, and USC Marshall in Round 2, he sought my help with Round 3 and Round 4. Because I knew how difficult it is for international students to get accepted in R3 & Beyond, I was initially hesitant. However, Jay's determination and resourceful spirit, where he researched programs that accepted international applicants for Round 3 and beyond, reassured me that it would be worth trying. We ended up working on applications for two programs: CMU Tepper and Georgetown McDonough. We started from scratch and throughout the process we focused on emphasizing his unique background (Sales in SemiConductors) and fit for the program (strength of Tech, Consulting). Georgetown McDonough in particular had essays regarding values and community and Jay was able to successfully communicate his passion for community involvement and aligned values. With additional coaching for the video essay and interview, Jay was able to present himself in an authentic and memorable way, as a leader, ready to improve his business acumen further while sharing his experience. This led to his admission and scholarship offer for Georgetown McDonough.
Today, Jay is finishing up his last few months of MBA and although his journey has hit its challenges, I'm proud to see how much Jay has grown, both as a leader and a person. Regardless of the next step, I can see that Jay has developed key life skills that make him prepared to handle any situation and ultimately reach success. Thank you Jay for choosing me as your MBA Admissions Coach and I look forward to seeing your continued growth and success!
Whether you're applying in Round 3/4 or planning ahead for next year, having the right strategy and support can make all the difference. Jay’s story shows that even in the toughest rounds, a well-crafted application and the right guidance can lead to success. If you're wondering how to position yourself for the best outcome, let’s talk! Book a FREE 30-min consultation with me here to assess your candidacy and build a compelling application that sets you apart!
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